Modeling Low-Level Network Configurations for Analysis, Simulation and Testing

Abstract

In this paper, we present an approach to specifying a network configuration model based on the ISO/OSI reference model. The network configuration model is capable of modeling the lower layers of networks enabling several use cases: (a) analyze existing network configurations, e.g., to find configuration errors and identify which components contribute to the error; (b) simulate changes made to the configuration and predict their consequences; (c) serve as documentation for the network; and (d) visualize the network in order to better understand it and to make clear its structure to everyday users. These analysis techniques were applied to essential parts of a professional network center.